County seeks stronger data center rules
The Henry County Board of Supervisors is working to strengthen its proposed data center ordinance after strong opposition from residents. Concerns primarily revolve around water usage, electricity grid strain, noise, and the protection of farmland and rural character. The board did not approve the initial provisions and is seeking more robust regulations to put protections in place.
Residents of Henry County expressed strong opposition to a proposed data center ordinance at a July 28 meeting, prompting the Henry County Board of Supervisors to withdraw the data center provisions for further review. Over 30 residents voiced concerns regarding potential impacts on county water resources, noise levels, electricity consumption, and the preservation of farmland and rural character. The initial ordinance, proposed by the Henry County Planning Commission, aimed to establish requirements for data centers, including restrictions on water use and mandatory industrial zoning.
Board Chairman Jim Adams emphasized the county's goal to find common ground and ensure accountability for data center operations, including decommissioning plans. Vice Chairman Travis Pruitt noted that while the community desires no data centers at all, the board's immediate objective is to establish protective ordinances, as currently "there’s no ordinances that say they can’t" locate in the county. Supervisors also cited concerns from other localities, such as Loudoun County, regarding grid strain and environmental effects, and referenced a request from Virginia lawmakers to Governor Abigail Spanberger for a statewide moratorium.
Supervisors Debra Buchanan, Garrett Dillard, Pam Cobler, and Chris Lawless all advocated for stronger regulations covering buffer zones, water quality, environmental protection, land preservation, and ensuring data centers provide their own power and do not burden residential ratepayers. The board members agreed on the need for comprehensive protections to hold future data centers accountable and prevent negative impacts on the community and environment, acknowledging that the initial proposal was insufficient given public sentiment.